One of the first things a new RV owner does is replace their mattress.
However, when they go through the process of looking for mattresses they quickly realize that everything related to RV mattresses are… lopsided, to say the least.
How does an RV queen mattress differ from a standard queen mattress?
Wait my camper dimensions say a regular queen mattress fits?
Didn’t the sales guy (or gal) say RV short queen?
If you’re asking any of these questions, then you’ve landed at the right spot.
Today we’re going to walk through how each mattress option fits within your camper, why they’re sized the way they are, and even some funky corner cut options (more on that in a bit!).
Let’s get started!
Why Not Just Use My Regular Mattress To Replace My RV Mattress?
Honestly, when Jenn and I first started looking at RVs, this is what I thought.
I was wrong. Dead wrong.
In short, a “standard” mattress size will just not fit as the mattress for your RV. The RV beds aren’t exactly built for space. In fact, they’re built for conserving space, which means shaving inches everywhere they can.
Granted, if you’re ballin’ out of control and want to show off your regular mattress in your 45 foot class A, then by all means please do.
However, for those in 28-35 foot travel trailers dealing with an RV queen and looking to upgrade, then you absolutely must know the RV mattress size differences.
With that said, let’s get in to the specifics of each.
Different RV Mattress Sizes
Let’s get right to the good stuff. If you’re new to RVing than you probably haven’t come across how bonkers RV mattresses are.
However, even though the dimensions do differ greatly from standard mattress sizes, you have to remember that space is critical. There’s only so much manufacturers can do to utilize the floor space.
Good news is we’re going to break down the different RV mattress sizes so you can get a good understanding of each. And also review what mattress sizes are most common in the different types of rvs.
RV Twin Size Mattress
A RV twin mattress comes in two primary sizes:
- 28 inches wide x 75 inches long
- 28 inches wide x 80 inches long
This mattress type is going to be the most common in the RV mattress world. Why? because they’re so compact and can fit in a majority of spaces.
Sometimes a RV twin mattress can used as bunk beds with the idea that children will be sleeping on them. If you’re over 6 foot you’re probably going to feel very uncomfortable sleeping on this mattress size.
RV Bunk Mattresses
Bunk beds are an RVs best friend. If you’ve got kids, then you’ve probably got a bunk bed floor plan.
These mattress sizes will come in a variety of options. Honestly, an RV bunk mattress has no limits to the variety of sizes, but they will mostly fit between 28 to 35 inches wide and roughly 75 to 80 inches long.
With this particular mattress type you’re going to need to double check your measurements. Every manufacturer is different, but will typically list it in the floor plan.
Three Quarter Size Mattress
This mattress type sits between a twin/bunk and a full. It’s the awkward teenager of RV mattress options.
They’re commonly used in class Bs which don’t have enough room for a RV queen bed.
Just as the name sounds, they’re 75% of a queen mattress and will typically be 48 inches wide by 75 inches long.
Expect to sleep a couple of kids on it, or a single adult.
RV Full Mattress
Now we’re starting to get into adult territory here. An RV full is going to offer a single adult a fairly comfortable night sleep. Sometimes a couple can fit, but you better like spooning the whole night.
Most RV full mattresses will come in 2 fairly standard sizes:
- 53 inches wide x 75 inches long
- 55 inches wide x 75 inches long
Fun fact, an RV full is just an inch smaller than a standard full. Why make a mattress just a single inch smaller, I don’t know, but this is where we are.
Something also to point out which you’ll come across is people calling a full mattresses “RV double mattresses” or a “double size mattress”.
They can be used interchangeably usually.
RV Short Queen Mattress
A short queen mattress is the most common mattress size listed here. You will often find a RV short queen mattress in travel trailers, class Cs and Bs, and even some small class As.
It’s the same width as a standard queen mattress, except it’s short. A normal queen will be 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, while a short queen measures at 60 inches wide and 75 inches long.
You’ll normally be able to fit two grown adults with enough space to feel comfortable. Often you can fit 3 children (usually under 10) on this mattress size too.
RV Queen Mattress
An RV queen mattress size is the same as a standard queen mattress size. There’s no tom-foolery here. Except the RV in front of the mattress.
Just like a regular queen mattress, you can expect an RV queen to be 60 inches wide by 80 inches long.
You’ll be able to sleep 2 full adults and/or 3 children.
RV King Mattress
Personally, it’s fairly rare to find an RV king size mattress. The only time you’ll find them is in larger class A motorhomes or fifth wheels.
There are a couple different sizes when it comes to a RV king mattress:
- RV Short King Mattress: 72 inches wide x 75 inches long
- RV King: 72 inches wide x 80 inches long
- RV California King: 72 inches wide x 84 inches long
As you can see, an RV California king and a regular king size mattress are the same. I’ve heard of people who went full time just replace their RV mattress with their home mattress (California king obviously) without any issues.
Just remember, you’re going to be in a larger motorhome or a substantial fifth wheel to fit this in your rig.
Special Mention: Truck Size Mattress
RV mattress sizes vary widely, and it’s no different for semi-trucks or truck campers. From everything we’ve come across, a truck mattress needs its own section because this RV mattress size will swing from 35 inches wide to 42 inches wide and sometimes as long as 80 inches.
Comparison Table Of RV Mattress Sizes
Here’s a quick RV mattress size chart of the different RV mattress dimensions:
RV Mattress Sizes Chart
| Mattress Size | Dimensions (IN) | Dimensions (CM) |
| RV California King | 72 inches by 84 inches | 182.8 cm by 213.3 cm |
| RV King | 72 inches by 80 inches | 182.8 cm by 203.2 cm |
| RV Short King | 72 inches by 75 inches | 182.8 cm by 190.5 cm |
| Eastern King | 76 inches by 80 inches | 193.0 cm by 203.2 cm |
| Olympic Queen | 66 inches by 80 inches | 167.6 cm by 203.2 cm |
| Three Quarter | 48 inches by 75 inches | 121.9 cm by 190.5 cm |
| RV Queen | 60 inches by 80 inches | 152.4 cm by 203.2 cm |
| RV Short Queen | 60 inches by 75 inches | 152.4 cm by 190.5 cm |
| RV Full | 53 inches by 75 inches | 134.6 cm by 190.5 cm |
| RV Bunk | 42 inches by 80 inches | 106.6 cm by 203.2 cm |
Measuring a RV Mattress To Fit Your Rig
If you’re new to RVing, here’s something wild. Most RV mattresses (usually in smaller campers) will need their corners cut. You end up with an odd polygon looking RV mattress that’s supposed to fit into your RV bunk beds. It’s a bit of a mess.
Now, every RV bed is different. In order to now what mattress you need to purchase, you’ll need to accurately measure your layout.
Here’s a 3 different ways you can measure the cutout corner of your RV mattresses (you should use all 3 to guarantee your measurements are correct):
- Measure Your RV Mattress With A Carpenters Square
Have you ever seen the L-shaped ruler? Yea, that’s a carpenters square and is used to measure right angles. Simply place your carpenter square against your RV mattress and then measure on each side to see where you’ll need to cut. You’ll get two different measurements. You should expect to see the same on each side.
- Measure Your RV Mattresses With Intersecting Rulers
Don’t have a carpenters square? No problem! You can measure an RV mattress with a couple of tape measurers or rulers to find the radius corner. Face the ruler upward lining up the inside of the ruler where the curve starts. Do the same thing to the other side. You’ll have a perpendicular point where they both cross. That measurement is your radius corner.
- Measure Your RV Mattress Using The Rulers Edge
Run each ruler along the edge of the RV mattress. Make sure to get the two rulers to touch at the corner. Measure the distance from the corner to the RV mattresses side. You’ll have to create a straight line down on the mattress, but where the two ruler’s line up is your radius corner.
Just for reference, there are companies who specialize in making custom RV mattresses. Even if they’re slightly expensive, if it means sleeping better then it’s worth it.
At least you’ll know how to measure the RV mattress sizes now though!
Different RV Mattress Types
Okay, so RV mattresses might come in funky sizes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find high quality material to sleep on. In fact, nearly every RV mattress will have the same type of material that you’ll find in your home. Let’s get into the different material:
Memory Foam Mattress
If you plan on going full time with your RV, then we highly recommend you consider memory foam mattresses as your preferred sleeping choice.
They’re supportive and typically long lasting. Plus, they mold to your specific bodies curves to help eliminate pain or pressure points.
However there are a couple points to think about before purchasing a memory foam mattress.
First – if your RV doesn’t have A/C then go with a memory foam mattress topper. You don’t want to risk ruining your investment because of poor temperature control.
Second – be ready to invest. Especially if you’re looking at a queen RV mattress or an RV king mattress. Why? Because the larger the RV bed, the more foam and mattress you’ll need. Foam mattresses aren’t exactly cheap and you’ll need anywhere from $500 – $900 for the purchase.
Latex Mattress
Similar to foam beds is the latex mattress option for your RV mattress. Offering a breathable but more springy feel to your night rest, the latex mattress will form around your body helping alleviate pressure point pain, but without the heat capture that memory foam has.
Latex mattresses are naturally hypoallergenic and will resist dust, mites, and other critters fairly well. This makes latex an excellent choice for RVing, even if you’re in non-temperature controlled climates.
However, just like foam beds, be ready to invest. You’re looking at anywhere from $800 – $2,000 depending on your mattress size.
Innerspring Mattress
Innerspring mattresses are your more conventional option for a bed. Many RV mattresses will initially come as an innerspring. They’re the coil support system that provides significant bounce (think trampoline feel) which helps with those who need a lot of support.
Most RV owners will opt to keep their innerspring mattresses but will spice it up with mattress toppers (often made of gel memory foam) to help provide a little extra comfort.
Usually full time RVers will replace this mattress type, but they can be useful for children to sleep on – because they can sleep on anything – due to how cheap they are.
Innerspring RV twin beds often only run a couple hundred dollars.
Expect an innerspring mattress to run you roughly $200 – $500 depending on what size mattress you have or need to get.
Air Mattresses
Lightweight, often used when tent camping, and only to be used as a last resort is the air mattress.
In our humble opinion, only children should sleep this mattress type because of the leaking. Sure in the beginning you’ll be confident that you’ll get a good night sleep, until 3 am when you find yourself laying a couple inches from the floor due to air leaking out of the mattress.
Honestly, don’t replace your standard RV mattress with an air mattress. Only keep it as a back up. If you do need to get one, expect to spend between $100 – $400.
Hybrid Mattress
Another good option for a mattress for your RV is the hybrid. They feature a coil system with a mix of either memory foam or latex.
Offering both a bouncy, cushiony, and rather durable feel to the mattress. Great if you want breathability and want to skip on the lumpiness of standard mattress options.
They’re often heavy though, and not cheap.
Look to spend roughly $1,000 – $2,000 for a hybrid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type Of RV Mattress Is Right For My Rig?
Depends on your current rig set up, but if you don’t have temperature control then you’re probably better off with an innerspring or a latex option.
If you do have temperature control and like a more cushiony feel, then opt for a memory foam option.
Is There A Specific Thickness I Need For My RV Mattress?
If your bed platform sits within a slide out, then you’re not going to want any mattress thicker than 6 inches or so. If your RV doesn’t have a slide out, then you can typically go as thick as you want.
I’ve seen bunk mattresses +6 inches thick (when including a topper) work perfectly fine.
I’ve also seen a queen RV mattress need to be 4 inches thick because it wouldn’t allow the murphy bed to close.
RV mattress sizes range in a wide spectrum, and this goes for the thickness. You’ll need to understand your specific rig and measure (you can use the guide above) to know for certain what can and cannot be done.
What Key Items Should I Know Before Choosing A RV Mattress?
First thing you need to know is the RV mattress size.
Will you need RV twin mattresses? What size is it actually? Are you sure they’re not RV bunk mattresses?
Maybe you need a RV short king? Does it have the same dimensions as what was listed in the manufacturing material?
All of this is crucial first.
Then you can focus on the other factors like:
- Durability
- Price
- Material
- Weight
- etc.
Remember, you’re in an RV where weight MATTERS. Ultimately this will affect the RV mattress sizes you can select.
Are RV Mattress Sizes Equal To Standard Mattress Sizes?
No – not for the most part.
An RV king is not equal to a standard king mattress (if you get lucky to even have a king).
The RV queen mattress size varies greatly from conventional options too. Plus, there’s like 3 different queen RV mattress sizes which adds a lot of confusion.
Honestly, nothing makes sense about it, but that’s the life we live.
